Job 23:5

Authorized King James Version

I would know the words which he would answer me, and understand what he would say unto me.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
אֵ֭דְעָה
I would know
to know (properly, to ascertain by seeing); used in a great variety of senses, figuratively, literally, euphemistically and inferentially (including o
#2
מִלִּ֣ים
the words
a word; collectively, a discourse; figuratively, a topic
#3
יַעֲנֵ֑נִי
which he would answer
properly, to eye or (generally) to heed, i.e., pay attention; by implication, to respond; by extension to begin to speak; specifically to sing, shout,
#4
וְ֝אָבִ֗ינָה
me and understand
to separate mentally (or distinguish), i.e., (generally) understand
#5
מַה
properly, interrogative what? (including how? why? when?); but also exclamation, what! (including how!), or indefinitely what (including whatever, and
#6
יֹּ֥אמַר
what he would say
to say (used with great latitude)
#7
לִֽי׃
H0

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Job. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection